IDRISSI International School vs Sri Utama International School - Johor Bahru
IDRISSI International School and Sri Utama International School - Johor Bahru are both in Johor Bahru, about 18 km apart. Both schools offer Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge (Secondary) and Cambridge IGCSE programmes. Published annual fees are MYR 12,000 - 27,000 at IDRISSI International School and MYR 12,458 - 20,000 at Sri Utama International School - Johor Bahru, which puts IDRISSI International School roughly 20% higher. IDRISSI International School takes pupils from 4 to 16, and Sri Utama International School - Johor Bahru from 3 to 16. Sri Utama International School - Johor Bahru is the larger school, with around 1,000 pupils to IDRISSI International School's 500. Typical class sizes are 25 at IDRISSI International School and 20 at Sri Utama International School - Johor Bahru.
IDRISSI International School EduCity is located at Block A, EduCity Complex 2, Persiaran Canselor 1, EduCity Iskandar, 79200 Iskandar Puteri, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia. It is situated within the EduCity hub, a prominent education zone in southern Johor near the Malaysia–Singapore Second Link. The school is accessible via the EduCity free shuttle bus line (IP), with the nearest stop at Newcastle University of Medicine Malaysia, which is about a 6-minute walk from the school premises.
Location
Sri Utama International School Johor Bahru is located in the residential neighborhood of Melodies Garden, just off Jalan Rhu. The campus is situated within easy reach of the Johor Bahru city centre and is accessible via major roads such as Jalan Abdul Samad and the Tebrau Highway. The area is well-connected by car and close to key amenities including hospitals, shopping malls, and restaurants.
Stages
Stages
The school caters to students from Preschool (Kindergarten 1–3) for ages 4 to 6, Primary (Years 1–6) for ages 7 to 12, and Secondary (Years 7–11) for ages 13 to 16.
Stages
The school is structured into three key phases: Kindergarten (ages 3–5), Primary School (Years 1–6), and Secondary School (Years 7–11). Students typically transition through these phases within the same campus, following the Cambridge International Curriculum throughout.
School type
School type
IDRISSI is a co-educational day and boarding school.
School type
It is a private co-educational day school, welcoming both boys and girls.
Pupil nationality mix
Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix
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Additional learning support
Additional learning support
The school offers Personal Learning Assistant (PLA) services to students who need academic reinforcement. Additionally, the school also runs a Loving After-Care programme for children who remain on campus after school hours.
Additional learning support
While the school does not advertise a specialised special needs department, it provides differentiated teaching approaches and pastoral care for a range of student needs. Teachers aim to support students' academic and emotional development through classroom accommodations and individual attention, where required.
Country affiliation
Country affiliation
The school is not affiliated with any country.
Country affiliation
The school does not have a formal affiliation with any specific country.
Religious affiliation
Religious affiliation
IDRISSI is an Islamic school.
Religious affiliation
The school is not affiliated with any particular religion. However, it offers Islamic Studies as part of its curriculum for students who choose it, alongside PSHE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education) for others.
School day structure
School day structure
Preschool students attend from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM, Monday through Thursday, and 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Fridays.
Primary students have classes from 8:00 AM to 3:20 PM, Monday through Thursday, and 8:00 AM to 12:40 PM on Fridays.
Secondary students follow the longest schedule, from 8:00 AM to 3:50 PM, Monday through Thursday, and 8:00 AM to 12:40 PM on Fridays.
School day structure
The school day typically begins at 8:00 AM and ends at 3:00 PM from Monday to Thursday. On Fridays, the school operates on a shorter schedule, finishing at 12:30 PM. Breaks and lunch are built into the day, though exact timings may vary by age group.
Bus service details
Bus service details
The school does not have a bus service.
Bus service details
The school offers a bus service that circulates through local neighborhoods. Families can obtain contact details for the school’s transportation provider upon enrolment. Routes are arranged based on demand, so parents are encouraged to check whether their area is covered and coordinate directly with the bus operator.
Fees
Fees
Fee details
Fee details
One-Time Fees (Non-Refundable) Application Fee: RM 300 (payable upon submission of the application form) Registration Fee: RM 1,500 (due upon acceptance of placement offer)
Refundable Deposit Security Deposit: RM 5,000 (refundable upon withdrawal with required notice and without outstanding dues)
Annual Tuition Fees (Payable in full or in installments per term) Preschool (Kindergarten 1–2): RM 12,000 / year Primary (Grades 1–5): RM 22,800 / year Upper Primary (Grade 6): RM 24,000 / year Secondary (Grade 7–9): RM 25,800 / year Secondary (Grade 10–11 / IGCSE Level): RM 27,000 / year
Boarding (Optional for Secondary Students) Boarding Fee: RM 27,000 / year
Boarding Deposit: RM 2,000 (refundable)
Refund Policy The RM5,000 deposit is refundable only if a written withdrawal notice is given at least four (4) months in advance.
The deposit is refunded only if all school fees are fully paid and no outstanding dues exist.
If withdrawal notice is given after the term starts, no school fees will be refunded.
A RM200 administrative charge applies to all withdrawals.
Refunds (if eligible) are processed within two months via cheque
Payment Methods The school has no publicly information on payment methods.
Fee details
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Diving deeper
Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements
Boarding arrangements
Boarding facilities are available at the Johor Bahru campus in EduCity Iskandar Puteri.
Boarding arrangements
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Uniform requirement
Uniform requirement
A school uniform is required; uniforms are not included in the base tuition.
Uniform requirement
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Food options
Food options
A rooftop cafeteria is available at the Bukit Jelutong campus; meals are not included in tuition.
Food options
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House system
House system
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House system
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Governance and ownership
Governance and ownership
GAINS Education Group is the parent company of IDRISSI International School. IDRISSI is part of the GAINS family, which includes Genius Aulad, Sekolah Tinta and Genius Care. The school is Cambridge Assessment International Education accredited (Checkpoint for Primary, IGCSE for Secondary).
Governance and ownership
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Academics
Academics
Curriculum details
Curriculum details
IDRISSI International School offers a blended curriculum that combines the Cambridge International Curriculum with Islamic education and eco-conscious learning.
Primary (Years 1–6) Subjects include English, Mathematics, Science, Global Perspectives, ICT, and Physical Education. The curriculum focuses on foundational academic skills, critical thinking, and inquiry-based learning.
Secondary (Years 7–9) This stage uses the Cambridge Lower Secondary Curriculum, which builds on primary knowledge and introduces more subject specialization. Subjects typically include English, Mathematics, Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics), History, Geography, and ICT.
Upper Secondary (Years 10–11) Students prepare for the Cambridge IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education). At this level, students take core and elective subjects based on their interests and strengths. These will include English as a First or Second Language, Mathematics, Additional Mathematics, Sciences, and elective options like Business Studies, Accounting, and Global Perspectives.
Curriculum details
Sri Utama International School Johor Bahru follows the Cambridge International Curriculum across all stages, from Primary through Upper Secondary. In the Primary years (Years 1–6), students study English, Mathematics, Science, and other subjects based on the Cambridge Primary Framework, with assessments including the Cambridge Primary Checkpoint in Year 6. Lower Secondary (Years 7–9) continues with the Cambridge curriculum and includes another Checkpoint assessment in Year 9 for core subjects. In Upper Secondary (Years 10–11), students prepare for the Cambridge IGCSE examinations, with subjects offered including English (First Language and ESL), Mathematics, Additional Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Accounting, Business Studies, Economics, Malay, and Global Perspectives. Additional subjects such as Art & Design, Music, Physical Education, and ICT are part of the broader curriculum. English is the main language of instruction, and all students also study Malay, with Islamic Studies or PSHE offered depending on student background.
The school implements the Value Education Programme (VEP), a character-building initiative emphasizing social-emotional skills. Through activities like organizing charity bake sales and visiting charitable homes, students cultivate empathy, self-awareness, and meaningful connections with others.
Social & emotional learning
Sri Utama International School integrates social and emotional learning into its curriculum through structured Personal, Social, Health and Economic (PSHE) education and Values Education programs. These lessons are timetabled across year groups and aim to develop skills such as self-awareness, empathy, and emotional regulation. Teachers also act as homeroom mentors, fostering supportive relationships and monitoring students' personal development. The school encourages open communication between students, staff, and families, and uses a student-centred pastoral care model. SEL is reinforced through daily classroom interactions and school-wide behavior expectations that promote mutual respect and responsibility.
Special educational needs (SEN)
Special educational needs (SEN)
The school currently does not offer any services for special needs children.
Special educational needs (SEN)
Sri Utama is not a specialist SEN institution.
English as an additional language
English as an additional language
The school does not have any publicly available information on EAL
English as an additional language
The school provides structured support for students who speak English as an additional language through its English as a Second Language (ESL) program, offered from early years through to IGCSE. ESL is a timetabled subject for all students, recognizing that most learners at the school speak English as a second or third language. At IGCSE level, students can also opt for English as a Second Language as an official examination subject. Language acquisition is supported by classroom teachers and ESL specialists using targeted instruction and scaffolding techniques. Additional reading and speaking initiatives, such as the “Sri Utama Readers” and “Communication” program, are offered at younger levels to build confidence.
Mental wellbeing
Mental wellbeing
IDRISSI's emphasis on a nurturing environment, combined with its nature-based learning approach, suggests a commitment to students' mental well-being. The school's eco-friendly setting and holistic educational philosophy aim to provide a calming and supportive atmosphere conducive to mental health.
Mental wellbeing
Mental wellbeing is supported through the school’s pastoral care framework, which includes homeroom teacher relationships, Values Education, and PSHE sessions. Teachers monitor student behavior and emotional development in class and refer students for additional support if needed. The school promotes open communication and family partnerships as part of its wellbeing approach. Activities that encourage teamwork, self-expression, and reflection are embedded into the school’s academic and co-curricular programs. There is no mention of a school counsellor or in-house mental health professional in the current materials.
Safeguarding
Safeguarding
The school does not have publicly available information on their latest safeguarding policies.
Safeguarding
Sri Utama implements a range of safeguarding measures to ensure student safety, including 24-hour on-campus security and CCTV monitoring in all areas. Access to school premises is controlled, and students are supervised during school hours and activities. While specific policies on child protection are not published in the prospectus, safeguarding is embedded in the school’s broader pastoral and behavioral expectations. Staff are expected to maintain a safe and respectful environment, and students are encouraged to report concerns to trusted adults. Families are included in safety communications through regular updates and meetings.
Safeguarding policy
Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy
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Facilities
Facilities
Facilities overview
Facilities overview
IDRISSI International School operates across two campuses: Setia Alam, Selangor, and EduCity Iskandar Puteri, Johor, with boarding facilities at EduCity. The Setia Alam campus sits in a green, eco-friendly area and provides an Islamic, homely learning environment. The Johor campus is part of a larger eco-learning ecosystem and includes world-class boarding facilities. Cambridge Assessment International Education is integrated into the school's framework, with learning infused with moral and environmental values.
Facilities overview
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Sports facilities
Sports facilities
The Setia Alam campus offers basketball, netball and futsal courts, a dedicated archery area, and a multipurpose hall for various sports. The Bukit Jelutong campus features an archery range and multiple courts for netball, futsal and volleyball. The Johor Bahru EduCity campus shares EduCity's facilities for sports and recreation, including campus-level recreational spaces. Extracurricular spaces emphasize practical, outdoor physical activities as part of the learning environment.
Sports facilities
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Academic facilities
Academic facilities
The Setia Alam campus provides Science Lab, Library, Art Lab and Computer Lab, along with a Rooftop Cafeteria, Garden and Petting Farm that support a nature-based approach to study. The Setia Alam campus uses an environment designed to blend Islamic values with modern academic spaces. The Johor Bahru EduCity campus offers air‑conditioned classrooms, auditoriums, a multipurpose hall, dining area, Art Studio, Science Lab, Computer Lab, Library, Garden and Mini Farm, with access to EduCity facilities. IDRISSI is Cambridge Assessment International Education accredited.
Academic facilities
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Extra curricular facilities
Extra curricular facilities
Extracurricular activities include the Junior Award Scheme for Schools (JASS) and Duke of Edinburgh Award (DofE), Hiking and Camping Club, Futsal Club, Graphic Design & Creative Club, Archery, Mandarin classes and Little Tahfiz, among others.
Extra curricular facilities
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Parent experience
Parent experience
History
History
IDRISSI International School was established in 2015 by a group of parents who envisioned an educational environment where students could learn joyfully beyond traditional classroom confines. Emphasizing a nature-based, eco-Islamic approach, the school integrates Cambridge International Curriculum with Islamic values and environmental consciousness. Following the success of its Setia Alam campus, IDRISSI expanded to EduCity, Iskandar Puteri, Johor, in September 2022.
History
Sri Utama Schools were established in 1993 by a private Malaysian education group with the aim of offering international-standard schooling within a local context. Initially founded in Kuala Lumpur, the school expanded over time to include campuses in Johor Bahru and Kuala Terengganu. The organization has maintained consistent leadership and operates under a unified administrative structure across all campuses. Over the past three decades, it has gradually developed its academic programs to align with the Cambridge International Curriculum while continuing to integrate national education components where applicable.
Community
Community
The IDRISSI community is built on shared Islamic values such as compassion, humility, and environmental stewardship. Activities like caring for farm animals, engaging in recycling programs, and supporting underprivileged groups are core parts of school life. These not only build student character but also contribute to a sense of collective responsibility and kindness within the school.
Community
The school community includes a mix of Malaysian and international students from various cultural backgrounds. Community life features regular celebrations of national and religious holidays such as Hari Raya, Chinese New Year, and Deepavali. Students and staff also participate in assemblies, themed cultural days, and school-organized performances. These events are intended to build cross-cultural understanding and foster inclusivity.
Parent teacher association
Parent teacher association
IDRISSI does not formally operate a Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), however it emphasizes strong school-home communication. Parents are regularly invited to participate in school activities such as open days, workshops, and celebrations.
Parent teacher association
Sri Utama Schools maintain an active PTA that plays a collaborative role in supporting school-wide initiatives and fostering engagement between parents and faculty. The PTA regularly helps coordinate festive events such as annual sports days, Hari Raya celebrations, and year-end concerts. In some years, parents have contributed to planning field trips and hosting international food fairs or cultural days. The PTA also provides feedback to school leadership on administrative issues and supports fundraising for student welfare projects. Meetings are held periodically to discuss academic developments and campus updates. Participation is open to all parents, and involvement levels vary by campus and year.
Extra-curricular
Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual
Academic & intellectual
The school is accredited by Cambridge Assessment International Education. Cambridge Checkpoint is offered for Primary School students and Cambridge IGCSE is offered for Secondary School students.
Academic & intellectual
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Arts & creative
Arts & creative
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Arts & creative
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Cultural & language
Cultural & language
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Cultural & language
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Social & hobbies
Social & hobbies
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Social & hobbies
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Community & service
Community & service
IDRISSI emphasizes sustainability and environmental values, with features such as an eco garden and mini farm. The school was recognized with the PEKA Eco Primary Education Award in 2016.
Community & service
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Leadership & professional
Leadership & professional
The school offers the Junior Award Scheme for Schools (JASS) and The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award.
Leadership & professional
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
Lifestyle & wellbeing
Johor Bahru offers Nature-based Preschool, Primary, and Secondary programs with Learning Outside the Classroom (LOTC). The Johor Bahru campus provides boarding facilities and has a 10:1 student–teacher ratio. Shuttle service is available, with pickups from Setia Alam and Bukit Jelutong. The EduCity Iskandar Johor Bahru campus is located in EduCity Iskandar, Iskandar Puteri, Johor.
Lifestyle & wellbeing
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Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
English is the primary language of instruction. Malay, Arabic, and Mandarin are available as language options. IDRISSI International School is Cambridge Assessment International Education accredited.
Language provision
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Bilingual teaching
Bilingual teaching
The school uses English, Malay, Arabic, and Mandarin in instruction.
Bilingual teaching
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Immersion programs
Immersion programs
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Immersion programs
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Reputation
Reputation
Awards
Awards
PEEAM EduAwards 2024: IDRISSI was honored as the Elite Winner for Best International School of the Year by the Private Education Entrepreneurs Association of Malaysia.
Motherhood Choice Awards 2023: The school received the Best Private International School award, acknowledging its positive contributions to the motherhood community.
Asia Pacific Enterprise Awards 2022: Recognized in the Corporate Excellence Category for the Education & Training Industry.
The BrandLaureate SME’s Best Brands Awards 2019–2020: Awarded in the Education – International School category.
5-Star Recognition for Quality Standard: Received from the Ministry of Education in 2018 for Private Education Institutions.
Best Islamic International School: Awarded by BabyTalk MamaPapa Magazine in 2015, 2016, and 2018.
The Best 10 International Schools in Malaysia 2018: Recognized by The Knowledge Review Magazine.
Awards
As of the latest available school prospectus and official materials, no specific awards have been listed for Sri Utama Schools in the past five years.
Accreditations
Accreditations
Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE): IDRISSI is an accredited Cambridge International School, offering the Cambridge curriculum from Primary Checkpoint to IGCSE levels. IDRISSI International School
Junior Award Scheme for Schools (JASS): The school implements the JASS program, a progressive learning initiative designed to develop students' personal growth and achievement.
Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award: IDRISSI offers this globally recognized youth development program, encouraging students aged 14–24 to engage in personal and social development activities.
Eco-Schools Programme: IDRISSI is recognized as the world’s first Islamic International School registered with the WWF Eco-Schools organization, promoting environmental and sustainable education.
Accreditations
Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE): Sri Utama Schools are accredited by CAIE to offer the Cambridge Primary, Lower Secondary, and IGCSE programmes. This accreditation allows the school to administer Cambridge curriculum assessments that are recognised by universities and employers worldwide.
Ministry of Education Malaysia (MOE): The school is registered with the Malaysian Ministry of Education, authorising it to operate legally as a private and international school within the national education framework.
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
1.Campus Tour or Open Week Participation Prospective families are encouraged to schedule a personalized school tour or participate in the school's Open Week events. These visits offer a firsthand experience of IDRISSI's eco-friendly campus, nature-based learning environments, and boarding facilities.
2.Application Submission To formally apply, submit the completed application form along with the required documents, which typically include:
Child’s passport copy Birth certificate Academic reports Vaccination records A recent passport-sized photograph
This documentation assists the admissions team in assessing eligibility and determining appropriate placement, especially for students transitioning from different educational systems.
3.Assessment and Trial Classes Preschool Applicants (Ages 4–6): Children are invited to participate in a trial class at the Nature-Based Preschool, where their social, emotional, communication, and motor skills are observed. It's important to note that all preschoolers must be toilet-trained before joining the school.
Primary and Secondary Applicants: Students undergo an entry assessment tailored to their age group. This assessment evaluates academic readiness and helps in appropriate class placement. The admissions team will provide details about the assessment schedule and format.
4.Curriculum Consultation After assessments, the admissions team will discuss the Cambridge International Curriculum pathway with you, ensuring it aligns with your child's academic background and future aspirations. They will also explain how Islamic studies and eco-values are integrated into the curriculum.
5.Fee Structure and Enrollment Confirmation Review the detailed fee structure, which includes tuition fees, registration fees, deposits, and any additional costs. Once you agree to the terms, you'll be guided through the payment process to secure your child's enrollment. The admissions team will also provide information on uniforms, transportation options, and other logistical details.
6.Final Enrollment and Orientation Upon successful completion of the above steps, your child's enrollment will be confirmed. The school will share orientation schedules, academic calendars, and other essential information to ensure a smooth transition into the IDRISSI community.
Admissions
1. Attend an Open Day or School Tour Families are encouraged to attend an open house or book a private school tour. These sessions give a first-hand look at the classrooms, facilities, and daily routines. It’s also a chance to meet with academic staff and ask questions relevant to your child’s level.
2. Complete the Application Form Once you've decided to proceed, you'll need to fill out the application form provided by the admissions office. Required documents typically include your child’s birth certificate, passport-sized photos, academic transcripts (if applicable), and immunisation records. Some age levels may require additional forms or reports.
3. Schedule a Placement Assessment Depending on the year group, applicants may be asked to complete a basic placement test in English and Mathematics. This is used to determine appropriate class placement and assess support needs. Younger children may have informal classroom observations instead.
4. Attend a Family Interview After the assessment, families are invited for an interview with the admissions team or school principal. This step helps ensure a good fit between the family and the school community. It’s also a chance to discuss school expectations and ask any final questions.
6. Offer of Admission and Fee Payment If your child is accepted, a formal offer letter is issued along with the school’s terms and conditions. To secure the place, a registration fee and refundable deposit must be paid by the specified deadline. Further orientation or transition arrangements may then be shared by the admissions team.
Scholarships
Scholarships
The school does not have any publicly available information on this.
Scholarships
There is no mention in the current school prospectus or public sources of a formal scholarship program for Sri Utama Schools. At this time, the school does not appear to offer academic or talent-based scholarships, but there is a siblings discount.
Waitlist
Waitlist
IDRISSI International School operates on a first-come, first-served basis. However, due to high demand, especially in certain grade levels, a waitlist may be implemented when classes reach capacity. Families on the waitlist are prioritized based on the date of application submission and are notified promptly when a spot becomes available. It's advisable to apply early and maintain regular communication with the admissions team to stay informed about your application status.
Waitlist
Sri Utama Schools do not operate a formal pooled admissions system. However, for year groups that are fully enrolled, families may be placed on a waitlist. Placement from the waitlist is offered on a rolling basis if spaces become available, and priority may be given to siblings of current students or based on the date of application submission.
